Location: Winneshiek County, IA | Metro: Allamakee County, IA
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $930 | $128,183 | 0.73% | D |
| 3BR | $1,270 | $176,813 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $1,450 | $241,424 | 0.6% | D |
| 5BR | $1,682 | $293,148 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
37.6% of residents in Postville, IA, rely on rental housing, indicating a significant portion of the population that could benefit from Section 8 assistance. The $950 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is notably higher than the $847 average market rent reported by the Census Bureau, suggesting that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect slightly higher rental incomes. Given the median home value of $207,187, it's clear that homeownership is not out of reach, but the median income of $64,125 might make it challenging for some households to afford homes without financial assistance. Despite the lack of specific data on days on market (DOM) and price-cut share, the disparity between the FMR and the market rent implies a healthy demand for affordable housing options. Landlords in Postville should consider the potential benefits of the Section 8 program, which can stabilize occupancy rates and provide a reliable source of income. The program's alignment with the local economic conditions makes it a viable option for both landlords and tenants. For small-portfolio investors, the opportunity to serve a substantial 37.6% renter share while receiving government-backed rental payments at a rate of $950 can be a sound investment strategy. In conclusion, Section 8 presents a favorable scenario for landlords in Postville, IA, offering a means to tap into a robust rental market while supporting the local community.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.